my fears...

Question
QUESTION: 3 weeks ago I adopted Ryder-a suurender dog-owners said he barked too much-they had got returned him to the vets where he had been found as a stray. He is 2yrs. old, beautiful, strong and the perfect dog( I have had goldens and labs in the past and trained both for field trial work (whislte, hand commands etc.)The 1st sign of trouble -gave him a large chew bone-was very protective of it, growled-unprovoked and if I even spoke to him he got a terrible look in his eyes-growled  and I was afraid. Had him go outside took bone away and hid it-end of problem. Ryder got out 2 weeks ago-hit by a car-serious-surgery for hip etc.  I knew he was miserable and in serious pain.  He started growling-again and very scary look- any how he is getting better phys. and emotionally every day now, but now I am afraid of him- trying not tobe, still giving him all the love he asks for it. I know he senses fear and now he is taking liberties-such as getting on my bed, when I leave it...My question-is he testing me-do i have to be afraid of this dog that i have only known for 3 wekks? How can I change or change him? Thanks so very much-have book on labs coming---

ANSWER: With your experience, you should already understand the importance of leadership on your part.  He simply must accept you as out ranking him. Take a look at http://www.dogbreedinfo.com./topdogrules.htm  Also try what of these you can with a larger dog.  

''Elevation for small puppies:  Sit on the floor and gently put your hands around your pup's middle, below his front legs, and lift him up.  He is facing you.  Hold him for 15 seconds.  Repeat until he no longer struggles.  If he is past 10-12 weeks, lift his front feet off the ground, but don't pick him up.  

Cradling for small puppies:  Hold your puppy gently on his back, as you would cradle a small baby.  If he struggles, hold him firmly until he quiets for 10-15 seconds.  With larger pups, you can do this as your sit on the floor, with your pup between your legs.

Quiet lying down:  Place your pup on the floor on his side, with all 4 legs pointing away from you.  Use your hands on his neck/shoulder area and middle, to hold him in this position.  When he is quiet, praise him.  Lengthen the time that you keep him quietly in this position.  When he accepts this position well, handle his paws and muzzle, while keeping him quiet.''

The quotes mean this isn't my original work.  It is copied from my Puppy Raising Manual.  I have long used these or minor variations of them, and they are very effective.  You may want to give him a belly rub while he is on his back too.  Helps bonding.  There is a big difference between him rolling over and demanding a belly rub, and you choosing a time to roll him over and rub his belly.  The latter cements your place as pack leader.

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QUESTION: My question was not answered- the response was about puppies I again have a 2 yr. old male 55 pound lab that I dont know (only rescused him 3 weeks ago and he is seriously injured from car accident, so i couldnt do these suggestions anyhow. Can anyone help????

Answer
Looking back over your question and my response, I am not sure why I included that material meant for puppies.  The leadership and top dog rules are very important.  So is eye contact.  Make eye contact with him before giving a command.  Then hold eye contact until he obeys